International Arts Policy.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 April 2004

Tuesday, 6 April 2004

Questions (79)

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

161 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in view of his statutory responsibility for promoting the arts within and without the State, he is considering the establishment of Irish cultural institutes abroad, along the lines of the British Council, the Goethe-Institut or the Alliance Francaise; his views on whether the absence of such Irish institutions prevents the promotion of cultural relations abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10651/04]

Written answers

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

It is my intention during 2004 to advance the formulation of a coherent policy on the international arts. Towards this end, my Department has commissioned a consultant to consider the issues arising and to make recommendations on how best to progress, and his report is expected shortly.

At this point in time, I have formed no firm view of the sort of structures referred to by the Deputy, but all viable options will be considered, with the objective of choosing options that work well, give good value for money, and involve acceptable cost in the context of competing demands at the relevant time.

Question No. 162 answered with QuestionNo. 152.